Santa Fe River

The picturesque Santa Fe River curves past hardwood hammocks and through river swamps on its way to joining the Suwanee River. Many clear springs feed the Santa Fe and a dip in the crystal waters provides relief on hot days. Some privately owned ones charge admission to enter and will be posted as such as you enter the spring run. There are other publicly owned parks that do not charge. Small shoals are present during low water, which can be attempted by intermediate paddlers. The Santa Fe River goes underground in O'Leno State Park and reemerges over three miles away in River Rise State Park as a circular pool before resuming its journey to the Suwannee River. From the put-in near US 41/441 it is possible to paddle about 5 miles roundtrip to visit the River Rise. This is a remote and beautiful area and it is worth paddling upstream to enjoy the wilderness scenery.

The following map and trail guide are provided courtesy of the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, Office of Greenways and Trails.

DISCLAIMER:The Original Florida Tourism Task Force (dba Visit Natural North Florida) and the North Central Florida Regional Planning Council do not warrant the accuracy or timeliness of this map and paddle guide or the safety of this trail for use by paddlers.Paddler should use this trail only if they have the adequate skill level and equipment, and paddlers must make that determination. Paddlers should also check weather forecasts and water levels in advance to avoid unnecessary danger. The Original Florida Tourism Task Force, the local governments in which these bicycle routes are located and the North Central Florida Regional Planning Council are not responsible for any damages whatsoever from its use.